Deansgate to Salford Quays Walking Tour | River Irwell, Manchester

A summer walk along the River Irwell into Salford Quays – Lets Walk the World !!! A warm summer walk along the River Irwell, following peaceful riverside pathways, historic bridges, and regenerated waterfronts all the way to Salford Quays. This route blends Manchester’s industrial past with its modern transformation — from old mills and trade routes to MediaCity, art spaces, and calm waterside views. Along the way, you’ll see the River Irwell’s journey from a 63 km industrial waterway to a clean, thriving river filled with wildlife, rowing clubs, and scenic walking paths. Once heavily polluted, the Irwell has made an incredible comeback, becoming one of Manchester’s most iconic walking routes. This video marks the revival of 24 Flavours after almost three years — bringing back peaceful city walks, global‑friendly storytelling, and calm ambience from Manchester and beyond. Whether you’re watching to relax, explore, or discover the city, welcome back to the journey. Lets Walk the World !!! #riverirwell #63km #manchesterhistory #salfordquays #mediacityuk #manchesterwalks #summerwalk #urbanregeneration #cottonopolis #manchestershipcanal #irwellvalley #wildlife #rowing #youngrowers #waterfrontviews #manchesteruk #walkingvideo #citywalks #travelvlog #historicmanchester #ukwalks #24flavours #letswalktheworld #letswalktheworld The River Irwell is 63 km long — flowing from the Pennines to the River Mersey. It forms the historic boundary between Manchester and Salford. The river powered early textile mills during the Industrial Revolution. By the 1850s, pollution wiped out all fish in the Irwell. Massive clean‑up projects began in the late 20th century. Salmon returned to the river after more than 150 years. The Irwell once carried trade boats transporting coal and textiles. It connects to the Manchester Ship Canal, opened in 1894. The river helped Manchester become a major inland port. Modern regeneration has transformed the riverside into walking paths. Wildlife like herons, kingfishers, and otters now live along the Irwell. The Irwell Sculpture Trail is one of the UK’s longest art trails. The river flows past Manchester Cathedral and historic city landmarks. Old quays and warehouses along the river have become modern apartments. The river once powered waterwheels before steam engines took over. The Irwell was central to Manchester’s rise as “Cottonopolis.” Flood management projects have reshaped parts of the river. The river’s name may come from Celtic words meaning “fresh water.” The Irwell Valley blends nature with urban scenery. Today, the river is a symbol of Manchester’s transformation. Young rowers gliding smoothly across the water. Salford Quays is one of Greater Manchester’s most modern waterfronts. Once part of the Manchester Docks, the area has been fully regenerated. Today, Salford Quays is home to MediaCityUK. The Quays offer peaceful waterside paths perfect for walking. Art, culture, and water meet here at The Lowry and IWM North. From rowing to open‑water swimming, the Quays are full of activity.